Dio is consistently manipulative and violently domineering, and has repeatedly shown a lack of conscience and empathy.

DIO is ecstatic when he sees his power growing further

Dio's most recognizable characteristics are his boundless ambition and his love of power. Abused by his father, being underprivileged and having lived in the most miserable living conditions,[8] Dio set for himself the goal of becoming the richest, then the most powerful being on Earth. To do so, Dio used anything or anyone that he could in order to further his goals, disregarding any kind of morality that would restrain the range of actions available to him. Using either manipulation, seduction, or plain violence, Dio constantly sought to become more and more powerful. Dio enjoys being in a position of power[9][10] and has repeatedly stated how great he felt being in a dominating position. On the contrary, Dio never tolerated that someone could stand up to him or equal him in power, and was enraged and deeply disturbed at the thought several times.